Cat Chronic Pain from Osteoarthritis and Mobility Support

Feline osteoarthritis is extremely common and severely underdiagnosed, with new treatments offering meaningful pain relief for affected cats.

Key Facts

Studies using x-ray imaging find osteoarthritis (OA) in over 90% of cats over age 12
Cats show OA pain through behavioral changes rather than obvious lameness - reduced jumping, sleeping more, and avoiding grooming
The Helsinki Chronic Pain Index for cats provides validated behavioral pain assessment
Frunevetmab (Solensia) is an anti-NGF monoclonal antibody FDA-approved for feline OA pain - given monthly by injection
NSAIDs are used cautiously in cats due to kidney and gastrointestinal sensitivity - meloxicam at very low doses can be used carefully
Gabapentin provides analgesic benefit for neuropathic components of OA pain
Environmental modifications including ramps, low-sided litter boxes, and raised food bowls reduce pain-associated strain

Welfare Considerations

Feline OA is one of the most significant and systematically undertreated sources of chronic pain in companion animals. A cat that stops jumping onto its favorite chair is not just getting old - it may be in significant pain. The availability of Solensia means that effective, well-tolerated pain relief is now possible for cats who cannot safely take NSAIDs long-term.

What You Can Do

Learn the behavioral signs of OA in cats - changes in jumping, grooming, and litter box use are key indicators
Request Solensia discussion with your vet for any senior cat with mobility changes
Modify the home environment with ramps, steps, and low-sided litter boxes to reduce OA pain
Use validated behavioral assessment tools to monitor pain level and treatment response over time
Schedule biannual wellness visits for cats over 10 specifically focused on pain assessment